The Localism Task Force played a critical role in gathering empirical data and grassroots information on broadcast localism and advising the Commission on concrete steps it could take to promote localism in radio and television broadcasting (News Release). The Task Force:

Conducted studies to measure localism and the efficacy of the Commission’s localism rules;

Organized a series of public hearings on localism;

Advised the Commission on recommendations to Congress relating to the licensing of thousands of additional low power FM radio stations;

Made recommendations to the Commission on how the Commission could promote localism in television and radio;

Advised the Commission on legislative recommendations to Congress that would strengthen localism.

The Localism Task Force was comprised of senior staff from several Commission Bureaus and Offices.